04/02 2025
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Undoubtedly, the entry of mobile phone manufacturers, internet giants, and technology firms into the new energy vehicle (NEV) market has intensified competition and continuously reshaped the landscape of emerging automakers.
Initially, the trio "NIO, XPeng, Li Auto" epitomized the new forces in the industry. These brands, each with its unique identity and robust sales, were among the earliest entrants and pioneers, listed in both the US and Hong Kong.
However, as the market welcomed more players, the dominance of "NIO, XPeng, Li Auto" shifted. By 2024, the spotlight turned to "Li Auto, AITO, Leaping Auto," reflecting a new tier of leaders.
It's important to clarify that the order "Li Auto, AITO, Leaping Auto" does not strictly denote ranking but signifies these three as the most prominent and representative players. They share a common focus on extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs), a segment that Li Auto pioneered and others have since emulated.
Initially questioned, EREVs gained widespread acceptance due to Li Auto's success, leading to "Li Auto, AITO" surpassing "NIO, XPeng, Li Auto" as the top three new forces.
Fast forward to 2025, and the pecking order has shifted once more. Now, it's "Leaping Auto, Li Auto, XPeng" leading the pack, with Xiaomi closely following, creating a duo of "Xiaos" among the top four. These automakers have demonstrated remarkable sales performance, each surpassing 30,000 units in March, with Xiaomi not far behind.
From "NIO, XPeng, Li Auto" to "Leaping Auto, Li Auto, XPeng," the evolving landscape underscores the intensifying competition and accelerating reshuffling within the industry. The domestic NEV market is poised for continuous change and realignment.
Moreover, the race for automotive intelligence has reached new depths, with people-centric intelligent driving becoming a universal aspiration. Amidst intelligent upgrades and strategic pricing, the NEV market exhibits a "survival of the fittest" dynamic, where laggards risk falling behind and being phased out.